By Remi Johnson
In a historic move toward sustainable urban development, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has inaugurated the first Green Solar-Powered Market in Abuja.
The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud unveiled the state-of-the-art Utako Farmers Market trailblazing project executed by the Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL).
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Mahmoud described the project as a symbol of innovation, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic growth.
She noted that the new market would play a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economy, adding that the facility is expected to support local farmers, empower small-scale agribusinesses, and ensure that fresh, quality produce is readily accessible to residents of the territory.
The Minister urged farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs to take full ownership of the facility and use it as a catalyst for economic growth.
Dr. Mahmoud lauded the visionary leadership and strategic collaboration between the public and private sectors that brought the project to fruition.
She stressed that the market exemplifies the FCTA’s commitment under the leadership of Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike to people-centered, impactful, and sustainable development.
“This market will serve as a platform where farmers can sell directly to buyers, eliminating middlemen, reducing post-harvest losses, and boosting rural incomes.
“As we inaugurate this market today, we reaffirm the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration under the leadership of Barrister Nyesom Wike, to drive development that is people-centered, impactful, and sustainable,” Mahmoud said.
Mahmoud also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support toward the development of Nigeria’s capital city, aligning the initiative with the broader goals of the current administration.
Earlier, the Group Managing Director/CEO of AICL, Amb. Maureen Tamuno, described the Utako Farmers Market as the first of its kind not only in the FCT but arguably in Nigeria.
She highlighted that the solar-powered infrastructure aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11, which seeks to make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
“The Utako farmers market being the First Green Market in Nigeria stands as an example of innovation, sustainability, and progress.
“We at AICL have demonstrated our resolve to actualize environmental sustainability and be part of the solution to climate change, which remains a global concern,” Tamuno said.
She further revealed that the market’s reliable and clean power supply would allow traders to operate for longer hours and better preserve perishable goods, ultimately boosting their income. Additionally, the market supports the food security policy under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Utako Farmers Market, situated on a 3,000 square meter plot of land, comprises 50 lockup shops, 40 informal stalls, and 7 warehouses, positioning it as a model for future market developments in the country.